glukuroniltransferazs

Glucuronosyltransferases, often abbreviated as UGTs, are a superfamily of enzymes that play a crucial role in the metabolism of a wide range of compounds. They are primarily involved in a process called glucuronidation, a type of conjugation reaction. In this reaction, glucuronic acid is transferred from a donor molecule, typically uridine diphosphate glucuronic acid (UDPGA), to a substrate molecule. This process generally increases the water solubility of the substrate, facilitating its excretion from the body, often via the kidneys or bile.

UGTs are found in many organisms, including humans, and are expressed in various tissues, with particularly high levels in the liver. They are involved in the detoxification and elimination of both endogenous substances, such as bilirubin, steroid hormones, and thyroid hormones, as well as exogenous compounds, including drugs, environmental toxins, and dietary components. The substrate specificity of UGTs is broad, meaning a single UGT enzyme can metabolize multiple different compounds, and conversely, a single compound can be metabolized by several different UGT enzymes. This enzymatic system is vital for maintaining homeostasis and protecting the body from harmful substances. Genetic variations in UGT genes can lead to differences in drug metabolism and susceptibility to certain diseases.